Rainbows spread across Sydney

Sydney, Australia residents are drawing rainbows across their city to protest the closure of an iconic rainbow-coloured crosswalk in the city's historical gay district. Since its instillation in February, the crosswalk drew large tourist attraction, raising concerns about public safety and congestion at the intersection. Following inaction by the city to renew or remove the crosswalk's permit after a one-month trial, the roads ministry painted over the installation late Wednesday night. Sydney's roads minister Duncan Gay said that city government's delay left him with no alternative.

Many residents have criticised Gay for the removal, which cost an estimated $30,000. Some say it was an affront to the city's gay community.